Introduction to the Bill of Rights

These flashcards cover key concepts about the Bill of Rights and the civil liberties it protects as outlined in the AP government curriculum.

Bill of Rights

The first 10 amendments to the Constitution designed to protect civil liberties.

Civil liberties

Constitutionally established guarantees and freedoms that protect citizens against arbitrary government interference.

Federalists

Those in favor of a more powerful central government during the ratification of the Constitution.

Anti-Federalists

Those in favor of more powerful states and opposed to a strong central government.

George Mason

A delegate from Virginia who was instrumental in advocating for the Bill of Rights.

James Madison

The author of the Constitution who initially opposed the need for a Bill of Rights.

First Amendment

Protects the freedom of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition.

Second Amendment

Protects the right to keep and bear arms.

Third Amendment

Protects citizens from having soldiers quartered in their homes.

Fourth Amendment

Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures of personal property.

Fifth Amendment

Deals with the rights of citizens when they are accused of crimes.

Sixth Amendment

Explains the process and protections entitled to a person accused of a crime.

Seventh Amendment

Guarantees the right to trial by jury.

Eighth Amendment

Protects against cruel and unusual punishment and excessive bail.

Ninth Amendment

Acknowledges that other rights not listed in the first 10 amendments are still protected.

Tenth Amendment

States that powers not explicitly granted to the federal government belong to the states.

14th Amendment

Later applied the Bill of Rights protections to the states.